Spain's Enagas Gets Approval to Develop Trans-European Hydrogen Pipeline
Key Ideas
- Spanish government approves Enagas to develop the Spanish section of the trans-European hydrogen pipeline and related infrastructure projects.
- Enagas, with a 5% state ownership, plans to shift from natural gas to hydrogen infrastructure in line with Spain's ambition to be a green hydrogen hub.
- The H2MED hydrogen pipeline project, connecting Spain to France and Central Europe by 2030, is a key focus, with an estimated 3.2 billion euros investment by 2030.
- Green hydrogen, crucial for Europe's decarbonization, requires subsidies due to its current cost, despite its potential to transform the economy.
The Spanish government has given Enagas, a gas grid operator with a 5% state ownership, the green light to commence development of the Spanish segment of a trans-European hydrogen pipeline. Enagas is undergoing a transformation from managing a natural gas grid to overseeing an extensive network of hydrogen infrastructure. This shift aligns with Spain's aspiration to position itself as a pivotal hub for green hydrogen in Europe. The focal point of both the government's and Enagas' strategy revolves around the H2MED hydrogen pipeline project, designed to link the Iberian peninsula with France and extend further into Central Europe by 2030. Collaboration with counterparts from France, Germany, and Portugal is integral to the development of this project. Enagas anticipates an approximate net investment of 3.2 billion euros by 2030 to propel various hydrogen initiatives, including the H2MED corridor. The Spanish government's initial approval encompasses critical projects within the H2MED corridor, such as connections with Portugal, an underwater pipeline named 'BarMar' between Spain and France, and the establishment of hydrogen storage facilities. While the approval is provisional, the exact prerequisites for commencing work remain unspecified. Green hydrogen, generated through renewable resources, is identified as a fundamental element in the endeavor to decarbonize Europe's economy. Although the potential of green hydrogen is substantial, its current pricing renders projects economically uncompetitive without financial support.